Wilkins granted sixth year

Wonderful news for senior UTSA center Larry Wilkins, who has been granted a sixth year of elibility for the 2012-13 season by the NCAA.

“It’s a great feeling to have my senior season back,” Wilkins said in a release. “I’m so happy I can’t even really describe it.”

Wilkins (6-foot-4, 250 pounds) has missed every game in what was supposed to have been his final campaign after tearing his right Achilles tendon during summer practice. His rehabilitation following surgery progressed so quickly that he’d been able to recently resume practice with the team, and likely would have seen action at some point this season had he not been granted a waiver.

Now that he has, the issue is moot — he’ll remain on the sideline until next season, when he’ll re-join a core of veteran players including forward Jeromie Hill and guard Melvin Johnson III. Despite averaging only 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game last season, his physical presence and leadership have been sorely missed by the Roadrunners.

Despite averaging only 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game last season, his physical presence and leadership have been sorely missed by the Roadrunners. He’s also perhaps the best-liked player on the team, by teammates and coaches alike. He should do wonders not only in the paint but in the locker room as well.

On a personal level, Larry will always have a place in my heart for one of my top favorite quotes in about 15 years in the business.